7 Affordable Holiday Gifts That Will Make Your Grandkids Think You’re the Coolest
Written by
Laura Bogart
Edited by
Kristen Mae
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When your grandkids were younger — and so were you — finding the right holiday gift was easier. Now, with social media driving trends that change by the second, it’s harder to know which gifts will make you that superstar grandparent. Add in the fact that you’re living on a fixed income, and the situation gets even trickier.
But being cool doesn’t require cold, hard cash this holiday season. There are plenty of teen-tested, budget-approved gifts that will help you keep your place as their favorite without angering your wallet. And you’ll still want to find cost-effective gifts for younger kids that leave enough cash to spoil them on birthdays too.
Finding the right gift through our guide is far simpler than spelling “Labubu.”
1. POP BEAN Fluffy & Cozy Series Blind Bag (1 pc. per pack): $6.99
You may not fully understand why these sweet little cartoon-style figures with goofy smiles are so popular with teenagers these days, but you know that they are. While you may not want to spend hundreds on a collector’s edition of Labubu — what does that name even mean? — spending less than $10 feels reasonable. With the blind-bag option, you don’t have to worry about picking the “coolest” one — you wouldn’t know which that is anyway — and your grandkid gets a fun stocking stuffer.
2. Up-Tech Mini Digital Camera: $15
You can subtly encourage your grandkids to put down the smartphone and enjoy some old-fashioned photo-taking by giving them a mini digital camera that captures HD photos and videos. It’s also a great gift for younger kids who haven’t earned a smartphone yet. They’ll think you’re super cool for supporting their selfie habit and Instagram posts; you’ll enjoy seeing all the photos they take. It’s a holiday win-win.
3. Vanva Universal Air Vent Car Mount: $12.99
The day your grandkid got a driver’s license probably made you age even more — not just in the “where did time go?” sense, but also in worrying about their safety. With this portable cellphone holder, they can use their phone for GPS or picking songs from their playlist — hey, you were young once; you’re with it — totally hands-free. It keeps the phone secure, even if they make a sharp turn or hit a bump, allowing them to enjoy their freedom while you hold onto your peace of mind.
4. Rubik’s Cube Pulse: $14.99
What’s old is new again. That saying still holds, from music and fashion to toys, and the Rubik’s Cube is no exception. But this isn’t quite the brainteaser from your heyday. The Pulse version ramps up the challenge with colored lights and timed gameplay that encourages faster solving. It lets your grandkid challenge themselves, beat their personal best, and who knows, maybe you’ll even play along and race them.
5. Fidget Pen: $18.99
Perfect for the aspiring writer, engineer or creative kid whose hands are always in motion — this magnetic pen doubles as a clever fidget toy. Using the magnetic pieces, they can create a wide array of sculptures, shapes, patterns and even puzzles. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind gift that might just cement your spot as one of the most creative grandparents around.
6. Custom Name Neon Sign: $12.50
With these customized neon signs, you can give your grandchildren a truly unique gift — a glowing sign of their name in a custom color and font, along with a small design. Anyone entering their room will immediately know they’re in the presence of greatness. Reviews on this Etsy seller’s page give high praise for quality and speedy delivery.
7. Smells Like Six Seven Candle: $7.19
When you Googled “What does six seven mean,” you learned it basically means nothing — yet all the kids, including your grandkid, are saying it. Show them that you’re hip with the times (or at least appreciate a good joke) with this homemade candle labeled “Smells Like Six Seven.” And what does six seven smell like? Take your pick from cozy Christmas, winter woods, lavender vanilla and more.
Need a little extra holiday magic in your budget? MoneyLion is giving away $2,000 a day for 50 days starting Dec. 5 — a real way to breathe a little easier this season. Sign up and see if this festive windfall lands under your tree.
Editor’s note: Product pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
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